Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2025 wrapped up its three-day run at the Tampa Convention Center from August 1–3, and fans are already feeling the familiar wave of “con blues.” Each year, the convention builds on its reputation as one of Florida’s premier pop culture gatherings, but this year’s edition stood out for its smooth organization, exciting guest lineup, and unforgettable atmosphere.
From the moment attendees entered the convention hall, the layout made a strong impression. The vendor area stretched across the main floor with row after row of collectibles, comics, and unique merchandise for every fandom. To one side, horror fans were drawn to the Scaradise booth, which gave a taste of its October fright-fest by showcasing memorabilia and horror icons. Celebrity guests were thoughtfully placed in their own section, which kept traffic moving while still allowing for intimate fan interactions.
The celebrity roster in 2025 was one of the strongest in recent memory. Henry Winkler charmed audiences with stories from his long career, while Melissa Joan Hart delighted longtime fans of Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Zachary Levi, Cary Elwes, and Ben Barnes were major draws, and John Rhys-Davies captivated the crowd with tales from his iconic roles in Indiana Jones and The Lord of the Rings. Beloved voice actors like Lenore Zann and Keith David also appeared, adding to the excitement and diversity of the lineup.
Panels this year offered more than simple Q&A sessions—they felt like immersive experiences. Steve Burns, forever remembered as the original host of Blue’s Clues, gave a heartfelt talk that resonated with both adults and families. A lively X-Men ’97 panel with Lenore Zann revealed behind-the-scenes details about the revival series, while Catherine Bell and James Denton reunited to discuss their time on Good Witch. Gaming fans were treated to a special panel with voice talent from Baldur’s Gate 3, where stories about recording sessions gave insight into one of the year’s most popular RPGs.
Of course, cosplay remained the heart and soul of the convention. Every corner of the convention center buzzed with creativity as fans donned elaborate costumes representing heroes, villains, and cult-favorite characters. Cosplay meetups brought together communities around shared fandoms—from anime enthusiasts to Star Wars legions—while the official costume contest showcased both craftsmanship and performance. For many attendees, the cosplayers themselves became the highlight of the show floor.
Beyond the main attractions, Tampa Bay Comic Convention also provided space for creators and fans to connect in more intimate ways. Artist Alley was filled with independent comic book talent, illustrators, and authors sharing their work directly with fans. Workshops and panels covered everything from writing techniques and animation insights to discussions about horror cinema and the evolving state of modern storytelling. The balance of big-name guests with grassroots creativity is part of what gives the convention its lasting appeal.
As the weekend came to an end, many attendees were left with the bittersweet feeling that comes from leaving a world built entirely around shared passions. Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2025 wasn’t just a chance to meet celebrities or shop for collectibles—it was an experience where fans became part of a larger community. With another successful year in the books, excitement is already building for what 2026 will bring.
